Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge
4.2015 reviewsThree Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2
Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rate for reserving the lookout cabin is $55 during the peak season (June 24 - September 30). Reservation service fees may apply: $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Perched high above the wilderness at 6,529 feet, Mount Baldy - Buckhorn Ridge Lookout stands as a sentinel over the vast Kootenai National Forest. This historic fire lookout cabin, crafted in 1957, invites adventurers to experience life above the clouds while gazing across an endless tapestry of peaks and valleys. From this extraordinary vantage point, the Cabinet Mountain Range unfolds to the west, while Rock Candy Mountain and the distant Kaniksu National Forest paint the horizon with their distinctive silhouettes.
Mount Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge Lookout primarily caters to rustic camping experiences within a historical fire lookout tower.
Historical SignificanceFor over a century, this mountaintop has served as the eyes of the forest, with fire watchers first scanning these peaks for smoke in 1910. The current lookout tower, built in 1957, continues this proud tradition of forest stewardship. Each weathered board and window frame tells stories of solitary watchers who spent their summers protecting millions of acres of wilderness, connected to civilization only by radio and their own determination.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Buckhorn Ridge reveal some of the darkest skies in the Northwest, where the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon in brilliant clarity. While the lookout's summer season typically brings crystalline mountain air and spectacular visibility, occasional wildfire smoke may add dramatic sunsets and a reminder of the landscape's wild nature. Mountain weather can shift quickly at this elevation, transforming from brilliant sunshine to dramatic storms that roll across the valleys below.
ElevationAt 6,529 feet, Buckhorn Ridge places you nearly a mile and a quarter above sea level, where the air grows thin and the views grow infinite. This lofty perch demands respect for high-altitude conditions, but rewards visitors with a perspective usually reserved for eagles and mountaineers. The elevation creates its own microclimate, where summer afternoons can still carry a mountain chill and morning frost may greet early risers even in July.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your eagle's nest atop Buckhorn Ridge, the world unfolds in layers of green and blue, where ancient evergreen forests carpet the valleys and jagged peaks pierce the sky. This remarkable ecosystem serves as a corridor for some of North America's most iconic wildlife—grizzly and black bears roam the forests below, while elk bugle in autumn meadows and wolves traverse ancient hunting grounds. Lucky observers might spot moose feeding in marshy valleys or catch a glimpse of the elusive mountain lion padding through the twilight shadows.
Geological RegionThe lookout crowns a landscape sculpted by millennia of geological forces, where the Kootenai National Forest meets the sky. This dramatic terrain showcases the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies, with views stretching into Idaho's Kaniksu National Forest and encompassing the rugged Cabinet Mountain Range. Rock Candy Mountain stands as a distinctive landmark, its unique profile a testament to the ancient volcanic and glacial forces that shaped this corner of the continent. Dense evergreen forests blanket the mountainsides, creating an emerald sea broken only by granite peaks and hidden alpine lakes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe lookout requires climbing stairs and manually operating heavy deck doors, which may pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or physical strength. One reviewer highlighted the difficulty in lifting the deck door and navigating stairs quickly.
Sites SizeThe lookout is compact, measuring 144 square feet, and is suitable for up to four occupants.
Sites PrivacyThe lookout is secluded, offering privacy and unobstructed views of the surrounding natural features.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests with mobility issues or limited physical strength should be aware of the heavy deck door and rough road conditions.
Best CampsitesThere is only one site available: the Mount Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge Lookout cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Guests may stay for up to 5 consecutive nights during a visit. A break of 7 days is required before making another reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The lookout accommodates up to 4 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe facility consists of a single lookout cabin atop a 26-foot tower encircled by a catwalk.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from late June to late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation regarding walk-up availability is not explicitly stated; reservations are highly recommended due to limited availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of any reservation fees. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior for cabins/lookouts) will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Mount Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge Lookout can enjoy hiking, hunting, berry picking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. Panoramic views of mountain ranges and starry night skies provide unique opportunities for relaxation and photography.
Hiking
A network of trails is available in the surrounding Yaak Area and Northwest Peaks Scenic Area, offering hiking opportunities through scenic landscapes.Wildlife viewing
The Kootenai National Forest supports populations of deer, elk, moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves, mountain lions, and smaller mammals and birds. Wildlife sightings were noted by users, adding to the appeal of the lookout.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed, but the lookout's elevation and snow coverage might offer opportunities for snowshoeing or similar activities.Water Sports
Water sports are not addressed in the provided materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests are encouraged to use firewood near the destination to prevent pests. Campfires are not explicitly mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Scheduled quiet hours are not mentioned specifically.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (bears, mountain lions), and navigating rough and primitive roads to access the facility.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Troy, MT offers emergency services including hospitals and police stations. The Troy Ranger District office is available for inquiries before arrival.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 24 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresA creek is located approximately 7 miles from the lookout, which can serve as a cooling spot during hot weather.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include navigation difficulties due to lack of accurate road signage, heavy smoke from distant fires reducing visibility, and challenges with accessing the lookout's heavy deck door.
HostGuests must call the Troy Ranger District office prior to arrival to confirm the combination lock code for the lookout.
Campground Map
Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2
Driving directionsFrom Troy Montana, follow Highway 2 West for 9.5 miles to Yaak Highway 508. Follow Yaak Highway 508 for 18 miles north to Meadow Creek Road 524. Follow Road 524 1 mile to junction with Road 745. Take road 745 approximately 4 miles to Baldy Mountain Lookout Road 591. Follow 591 for approximately 2 miles to Road 5954. Take Road 5954 to the lookout.
The lookout is accessible by car; however, high-clearance vehicles are recommended due to rough and primitive road conditions, especially in the final 3 miles.Nearby places
Troy, MT (approximately 32.5 miles via Yaak Highway 508 and Meadow Creek Road).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Troy, MT, approximately 32.5 miles away. Guests are advised to pack their own essentials as no supplies are available on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.2
15 reviews
Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with the lookout's scenic views, rustic charm, and peaceful atmosphere. Concerns frequently mentioned include difficulty accessing the site and the weight of the deck door.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the spectacular panoramic views, quiet atmosphere, starry night skies, and clean facilities. The propane stove, heater, and lights were mentioned as valuable amenities.
Based on 15 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring issues noted in reviews include challenges with the heavy deck door, rough access roads, and occasional smoke from distant fires affecting visibility. One user struggled to find the lookout...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommended bringing high-clearance vehicles for the rough roads, cleaning supplies for the cabin, and bug spray for warmer months. Some users suggested planning well in advance due to limited...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is most popular for reservations, but wildfire smoke can affect visibility. Winter brings heavy snowfall, potentially limiting access.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The views are of course spectacular and the trip is WELL worth making and spending a few days decompressing.' - Bradley Davis 2. 'Reservations are damn hard to get so plan way in advance.' -...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to the single lookout cabin. Users describe comfortable beds, functional propane appliances, and a clean vault toilet.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility concerns center around the heavy deck door and steep stairs, which might challenge those with physical limitations.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit information or reviews mention pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025